Convert ORG to MOBI

Why Convert ORG to MOBI?

Converting Org-mode documents to MOBI format allows you to read your content on Amazon Kindle devices and apps. If you've written books, manuals, or extensive notes in Org-mode, converting to MOBI makes them portable and readable anywhere.

MOBI is the native format for millions of Kindle devices worldwide. By converting your Org-mode content, you can take advantage of Kindle's features like adjustable fonts, built-in dictionary, progress sync across devices, and comfortable e-ink reading.

The conversion is particularly valuable for authors who draft their books in Org-mode. Converting to MOBI creates a file ready for personal reading or self-publishing through Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform.

Technical writers and educators can convert their Org-mode documentation and course materials to MOBI for students and readers who prefer consuming content on their Kindle devices during commutes or away from computers.

Key Benefits of Converting ORG to MOBI:

• Kindle Compatibility: Read on any Kindle device or app
• Portable Reading: Take your content anywhere
• E-ink Friendly: Comfortable reading on Kindle Paperwhite/Oasis
• Self-Publishing: Ready for Amazon KDP
• Sync Features: Whispersync progress across devices
• Built-in Tools: Dictionary, highlights, notes
• Offline Access: No internet required to read

Practical Examples

Example 1: Book Manuscript

Input ORG file (book.org):

#+TITLE: The Complete Guide to Python
#+AUTHOR: Jane Developer
#+DATE: 2024

* Preface

Welcome to this comprehensive guide...

* Part I: Fundamentals

** Chapter 1: Getting Started

Python is a versatile programming language
created by Guido van Rossum in 1991.

*** Installing Python

Download from [[https://python.org][python.org]].

** Chapter 2: Basic Syntax

Learn the fundamental building blocks...

Output MOBI file features:

MOBI eBook Structure:
-----------------------
Title: The Complete Guide to Python
Author: Jane Developer
Publication Date: 2024

Table of Contents:
1. Preface
2. Part I: Fundamentals
   2.1 Chapter 1: Getting Started
       2.1.1 Installing Python
   2.2 Chapter 2: Basic Syntax

Features enabled:
- Chapter navigation
- Clickable TOC
- Hyperlinks preserved
- Kindle dictionary integration

Example 2: Technical Documentation

Input ORG file (manual.org):

#+TITLE: API Reference Manual
#+AUTHOR: DevTeam

* Introduction

This manual covers the REST API endpoints.

* Authentication

** OAuth 2.0 Flow

#+BEGIN_SRC http
POST /oauth/token
Content-Type: application/json

{"grant_type": "client_credentials"}
#+END_SRC

* Endpoints

| Endpoint | Method | Description    |
|----------+--------+----------------|
| /users   | GET    | List all users |
| /users   | POST   | Create user    |

Output MOBI file features:

MOBI eBook Structure:
-----------------------
- Navigation through chapters
- Code blocks formatted monospace
- Tables converted to readable format
- Quick reference on Kindle

Best viewed on:
- Kindle Paperwhite
- Kindle App (tablet mode)
- Kindle for PC/Mac

Example 3: Personal Notes Collection

Input ORG file (notes.org):

#+TITLE: My Learning Notes
#+AUTHOR: Student

* Machine Learning

** Supervised Learning

Algorithms that learn from labeled data.

*** Linear Regression
- Used for continuous predictions
- Formula: y = mx + b

*** Classification
- Logistic regression
- Decision trees
- Neural networks

* Deep Learning

** Neural Networks

Inspired by biological neurons...

Output MOBI file features:

MOBI Personal Library:
-----------------------
- Searchable content on Kindle
- Add personal highlights
- Create bookmarks for review
- Sync across all Kindle apps
- Review notes on any device

Perfect for:
- Study materials
- Reference guides
- Quick reviews on the go

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is MOBI format?

A: MOBI is an eBook format developed by Mobipocket and later acquired by Amazon. It's the primary format for Kindle devices and apps. MOBI files support text formatting, images, and navigation features optimized for e-readers.

Q: Can I read MOBI files on non-Kindle devices?

A: Yes, you can read MOBI files using the free Kindle app on iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac. You can also use Calibre, a free eBook management tool that supports MOBI and many other formats.

Q: How are Org-mode code blocks handled?

A: Code blocks are converted to monospace formatting in the MOBI file. While syntax highlighting isn't available on Kindle's e-ink display, code remains readable with proper indentation and formatting.

Q: What about Org-mode tables?

A: Tables are converted to a readable format in MOBI. Due to Kindle's screen limitations, complex tables may be simplified. For best results, keep tables simple when targeting MOBI output.

Q: Can I publish MOBI files on Amazon?

A: Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) accepts MOBI files, though they now prefer EPUB or DOCX formats which are converted to their newer KF8/AZW3 format. The converted MOBI will work for personal reading on Kindle devices.

Q: Are images preserved in the conversion?

A: Yes, images linked in your Org-mode document are embedded in the MOBI file. Images are optimized for e-reader displays. Note that color images will appear in grayscale on Kindle e-ink devices.

Q: What happens to TODO items?

A: TODO items are converted to plain text markers. The interactive task management features of Org-mode won't be available in the MOBI file, but the content remains readable as static text.

Q: Is MOBI or EPUB better for Kindle?

A: Modern Kindle devices support both formats, but MOBI has been the traditional Kindle format. Amazon now uses a newer format (KF8/AZW3) internally. For personal use, MOBI works well on all Kindle devices.